FG Warns ASUU Against Strike, Vows To Enforce No Work No Pay Policy

FG Warns ASUU Against Strike, Vows To Enforce No Work No Pay Policy

The Federal Government has warned the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) against proceeding with its planned strike, insisting it will implement the “no work, no pay” policy if academic activities are affected. In a joint statement released on Sunday, the Minister of Education, Maruf Tunji Alausa, and the Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmed, said the government remains committed to addressing the union’s grievances through continued dialogue. “The Federal Government has shown sincerity, patience, and goodwill in its engagement with the Union,” the statement read. According to the ministers, most of ASUU’s key demands, including increased teaching allowances and improved welfare conditions, have already been met. They added that other pending issues are now under the purview of the newly reconstituted university governing councils. “Despite these efforts, ASUU’s decision to go on strike does not demonstrate fairness to students or the public,” the statement continued. Reiterating the Tinubu administration’s commitment to sustaining stability in the education sector under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the ministers noted that the “no work, no pay” policy remains an active labour law that will be enforced if classes are halted. They urged ASUU to reconsider its position and return to discussions, emphasizing that “the government remains open to dialogue at all levels to prevent further disruption in the nation’s universities.”  

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Katsina Government Opens Peace Talks With Bandits in Troubled Communities

The Katsina State Government has initiated a peace dialogue with armed bandits in Kakumi town, Bakori Local Government Area, as part of renewed efforts to restore lasting peace in the state’s violence-hit regions. The meeting, which began on Sunday, reportedly brought together representatives from at least five local government areas — Bakori, Kankara, Funtua, Kafur, and Malumfashi — all of which have suffered repeated bandit attacks in recent years. According to local sources, the dialogue aims to broker a ceasefire and secure commitments from the armed groups to end hostilities in affected communities. However, details of the discussions remain sketchy as of press time. Katsina, one of the states most affected by banditry in northwest Nigeria, has in the past experimented with peace initiatives that produced mixed results. Earlier reports by SaharaReporters indicated that despite failing to renounce their criminal activities or surrender their weapons after a previous peace agreement, the Chairman of Sabuwa Local Government Area, Engr. Sagir Tanimu, recently attended the wedding of children belonging to some of the bandits. The ceremony, held in Kadawan Dandume village — a community recently reconciled with local authorities after years of clashes — was reportedly part of the state’s ongoing reconciliation efforts with armed groups. Tanimu was said to have attended the event alongside Alhaji Ibrahim Bello Kogo, the Prince of Kogo Emirate, and the District Head of Sabuwa. While the government continues to explore dialogue as a pathway to peace, residents insist that true reconciliation can only be achieved when the armed groups formally renounce violence and surrender their weapons.

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Two Years On: Why Poor Nigerians Are Yet to Feel the Impact of Tinubu’s Bold Reforms

The presidency continues to insist that its bold reforms are visible, but many Nigerians are asking why the poor are not reaping the benefits of President Bola Tinubu’s policies after two years in office. Tinubu’s administration has consistently described its policies as “bold reforms” aimed at stabilizing and rebuilding the economy. These include the removal of fuel subsidy, the unification of the foreign exchange market, tax and revenue reforms, fiscal discipline, debt management initiatives, and an emphasis on promoting investment and infrastructure. However, the benefits of these measures have not been felt by poor and working-class Nigerians for several reasons. First, many of Tinubu’s economic policies, especially the fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange liberalization, were expected to cause short-term hardship before producing long-term gains. Unfortunately, after two years, inflation remains above 30 percent, food prices are even higher, and wages have not kept up. The so-called long-term benefits are still out of reach for millions living in poverty. Another major issue is the weakness of social safety nets. Although the government announced cash transfer and palliative programs to cushion the effect of reforms, implementation has been inconsistent and often poorly targeted. Many vulnerable Nigerians, for whom these policies were meant to provide relief, have not received any meaningful support. Without a strong social welfare system, the reforms appear more punitive than protective. The instability of the naira has also worsened living conditions. The currency devaluation, which was intended to attract foreign investment and unify exchange rates, has instead caused a surge in import costs. This has eroded the purchasing power of households, as businesses transfer higher costs to consumers. Moreover, the expected boost in productivity has not materialized. Local industries continue to struggle with power shortages, expensive imports, and high borrowing rates. Without significant growth in the productive sectors of the economy, the reforms have not translated into job creation or improved living standards. Public trust has also been undermined by perceptions of corruption and waste in government. Many citizens believe that the savings from subsidy removal and other reforms have not been properly managed or transparently utilized. Lavish spending by government officials amid widespread hardship only fuels disillusionment and anger among the populace. Even when reforms are well-intentioned, structural change takes time. Economic recovery, job creation, and investor confidence cannot happen overnight. But the lack of visible progress and accountability has made Nigerians increasingly skeptical and impatient. In the end, while the Tinubu administration’s reforms may appear visible on paper and in official reports, they have not yet brought relief to ordinary Nigerians. Prices remain high, incomes are stagnant, and inequality continues to deepen. Until the government channels the gains of its reforms into tangible improvements — such as affordable food, jobs, stable power, and accessible healthcare — most Nigerians will continue to see the reforms as promises without progress.

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Peter Obi: Hardship Pushing Nigerians Into Mental Distress, Crime

By Trend Brio News Desk | October 12, 2025 ABUJA — Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has raised alarm over what he described as a worsening mental health crisis in Nigeria, saying that the country’s deepening hardship is driving many citizens into psychological distress and criminality. In a post on his X (formerly Twitter) handle to mark World Mental Health Day, commemorated every October 10, Obi said that poverty, unemployment, and the struggle for daily survival have left millions of Nigerians mentally overwhelmed. “As the world celebrates Mental Health Day this weekend, it is troubling to note that a nation like Nigeria has deepening mental health crises,” Obi wrote. “A recent World Health Organisation (WHO) report estimated that about 40 million Nigerians are living with mental health conditions, with fewer than 300 psychiatrists available nationwide.” He lamented that the statistic reflects Nigeria’s “growing disinterest and neglect” of the health sector, emphasizing that mental health should be treated as a national priority. “Mental health is more important than physical health. Nigerians are now feeling so overwhelmed by hardship that they are mentally affected,” Obi stated. “Poverty, unemployment, and the daily battle to survive have pushed many, especially the youth, into hopelessness, criminality, and an increasing rate of suicide.” The LP flag bearer urged the federal government to declare a public health emergency on mental health and to invest massively in mental health infrastructure. He called for the establishment of psychiatric hospitals in all geopolitical zones, alongside the recruitment and training of more mental health professionals to bridge the gap in access to care. “We must also address the issues of poverty, unemployment, and hunger that are contributing to this mental problem and build a nation that heals, uplifts, and gives every citizen a reason to live,” he added. Obi concluded that Nigeria’s true progress should not be measured by the wealth of its leaders but by the well-being and development of its people.

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ASUU Shuts Down Universities Nationwide As Two-Week Warning Strike Begins

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has launched a two-week nationwide warning strike after the expiration of its 14-day ultimatum to the Federal Government. Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Sunday, ASUU President, Professor Chris Piwuna, announced that the strike would take effect from midnight, marking the end of the ultimatum. He said the industrial action became necessary to compel the government to honor past agreements and resolve the persistent issues plaguing Nigeria’s public universities. ASUU had issued the ultimatum on September 28, 2025, as part of renewed efforts to address long-standing disputes with the government over funding, salaries, and working conditions. According to Piwuna, all efforts to reach a resolution failed, leaving the union with no choice but to act. “All branches of ASUU are hereby directed to withdraw their services from 12:01 am on Monday, 13th October 2025. The warning strike shall be total and comprehensive as agreed at the last NEC meeting,” he stated.  

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China Condemns Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat, Defends Rare Earth Export Controls

China Condemns Trump’s 100% Tariff Threat, Defends Rare Earth Export Controls

By Trend Brio News  | October 12, 2025 BEIJING — China has lashed out at U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to impose 100 percent tariffs on Chinese imports, calling the move “hypocritical” and warning Washington to resolve trade tensions through dialogue rather than confrontation. In a statement released on Sunday, China’s Ministry of Commerce defended its recent restrictions on rare earth exports and related technologies, saying the measures were taken in response to a series of “provocative and damaging” U.S. actions since bilateral trade talks in Madrid last month. “China’s stance is consistent. We do not want a tariff war but we are not afraid of one,” the ministry said, adding that Beijing would not back down in the face of “threats and coercion.” Beijing accused Washington of double standards after Trump announced the sweeping new tariffs on Friday, claiming China had weaponized its dominance in rare earth production. The tariffs, which take effect November 1, target a wide range of Chinese goods and include new restrictions on software exports. “These actions have severely harmed China’s interests and undermined the atmosphere for economic and trade talks,” the statement added. Rare earth elements—crucial for smartphones, electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and military hardware—have become a central issue in the escalating economic rivalry between the two superpowers. China currently dominates global production and processing of these materials and on Thursday introduced tighter controls on the export of technologies used in mining and refining them. The new restrictions have rattled global markets, with tech stocks sliding amid fears of disruptions to the supply chain for critical minerals. The renewed trade tensions also threaten to derail a possible meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit in South Korea later this month. The encounter would be their first face-to-face meeting since Trump’s return to office in January. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs downplayed concerns that China’s export controls would disrupt its semiconductor industry, saying the rare earth elements covered by the new rules differ from those used in chip manufacturing. “The expanded ban differs from materials required in Taiwan’s semiconductor processes, so no significant impact is expected,” the ministry said, noting that Taiwan sources most of its rare earth materials from Europe, the U.S., and Japan. Despite China’s restraint in not announcing countermeasures, observers expect Beijing to continue using targeted export restrictions and diplomatic pressure as leverage in the ongoing trade confrontation.

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El-Sisi, Trump to Co-Chair Gaza Peace Summit in Egypt on Monday

By Trend Brio News | October 12, 2025 SHARM EL-SHEIKH, EGYPT — Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and U.S. President Donald Trump are set to co-chair an international peace summit in Egypt’s Sharm el-Sheikh on Monday, bringing together leaders from over 20 countries to discuss a comprehensive plan to end Israel’s devastating war on Gaza. According to a statement from the Egyptian presidency on Saturday, the summit aims “to end the war in the Gaza Strip, enhance efforts to achieve peace and stability in the Middle East, and usher in a new era of regional security and stability.” Among those confirmed to attend are United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, Italy’s Giorgia Meloni, and Spain’s Pedro Sánchez. It remains unclear whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu or any representatives from Hamas will take part. The announcement follows the implementation of the first phase of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, which includes the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, the partial withdrawal of Israeli troops, and the resumption of humanitarian aid into Gaza. Palestinians Return to Rubble As the ceasefire holds, tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians have begun returning north along the Gaza coast to their homes — or what remains of them. Much of Gaza lies in ruins after two years of war that have killed more than 67,000 people, mostly civilians, and left the enclave on the brink of famine. Al Jazeera’s Hani Mahmoud, reporting from Gaza City, described scenes of resilience amid destruction. “People walk this exhausting journey back because they belong here,” he said. “But spending a night here is going to be very difficult. The struggle to survive continues each hour.” Recovery Efforts Underway Gaza’s Government Media Office said more than 5,000 recovery and relief operations have been conducted since the ceasefire began. Over 850 missions were carried out by civil defence and municipal teams to recover bodies and clear debris, while more than 900 efforts focused on restoring water and sewage infrastructure. Officials in Khan Younis reported that 85 percent of the city has been destroyed, with over 400,000 tonnes of rubble still blocking streets. Aid agencies say the work is being done with minimal resources due to Israel’s continued blockade restricting fuel and equipment imports. Push for Humanitarian Access Aid groups, including the World Food Programme (WFP) and UNICEF, have called on Israel to reopen border crossings to allow the delivery of food, medicine, and relief materials. WFP country director Antoine Renard said the agency was ready to reopen 145 food distribution points across Gaza once access is restored. UNICEF also announced plans to scale up food and hygiene supplies for children and families. Prisoner and Hostage Exchange As part of the ceasefire deal, 20 Israeli captives and the bodies of 28 others are set to be handed over on Monday, according to President Trump. In exchange, Israel will release 250 Palestinian prisoners and about 1,700 Gazans detained without charge since the war began. In Tel Aviv, tens of thousands gathered in Hostages Square to mark the expected return of captives. Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, daughter Ivanka Trump, and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff — who helped broker the agreement — joined the rally. “I dreamed of this night. It’s been a long journey,” Witkoff said to loud applause. “As you return to your families, know that all of Israel and the world stand ready to welcome you home.” Al Jazeera’s Hamdah Salhut reported that families of Israeli captives credited Trump and the U.S. team for the deal, accusing Prime Minister Netanyahu of prolonging the conflict for political reasons. With the summit in Sharm el-Sheikh set to convene on Monday, global leaders hope the talks can solidify the fragile ceasefire and pave the way for lasting peace in the region.

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ASUU Set To Begin Two-Week Warning Strike As Ultimatum To Government Expires

ASUU Set To Begin Two-Week Warning Strike As Ultimatum To Government Expires

Members of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) are poised to begin a two-week warning strike on Monday unless a last-minute resolution is reached with the Federal Government. The strike follows the expiration of a two-week ultimatum given to the government to address the union’s long-standing demands. By Sunday night, no official response had been issued regarding the imminent industrial action. ASUU had directed its branches across the country to prepare for the strike, highlighting growing frustration despite ongoing negotiations aimed at preventing disruptions in the nation’s tertiary institutions. On Wednesday in Abuja, the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, said the government was in the final stages of talks with ASUU and other university unions, focusing on welfare, funding, and the implementation of the 2009 ASUU-FGN Agreement. Alausa said significant progress had already been made, including the release of N50 billion for Earned Academic Allowances and the inclusion of N150 billion in the 2025 budget for needs assessment, to be disbursed in three tranches. “They deserve to be paid well, and our academic and non-academic staff deserve improved welfare,” Alausa said. “We can’t give everything at once, but we are committed to making substantial improvements in their conditions.” He added that promotion arrears and other pending allowances had been addressed, with remaining obligations expected to be cleared by 2026. The minister urged the unions to favor dialogue over strikes and reiterated the government’s commitment to sustainable peace in the education sector. For the first time, the negotiation process has included officials from the Ministry of Justice, including the Solicitor-General of the Federation, to ensure that agreements are legally binding and enforceable. ASUU president, Prof. Chris Piwuna, criticized the Education Ministry for repeatedly delaying action on critical issues affecting lecturers. “The ultimatum expires on Sunday, and if the government does not present something substantial, a warning strike will commence,” he said. “Within the next 48 hours, we expect a meaningful response. Then we will consult our members to determine the next step.” Preparations for the strike are already underway at several federal universities, including the University of Jos, Ahmadu Bello University, and the University of Abuja. At the University of Jos, ASUU leaders met with branch executives to secure support for the planned action. Folasade Boriowo, spokesperson for the Ministry of Education, declined to comment when contacted about the strike.  

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